Dred Scott vs. Sandford (1857)

Notable Supreme Court Decision ruled slaves = property.
Even free African Americans were not considered citizens.

How did the 14th Amendment fix this situation?

​Answer: Established birthright citizenship & equal protection of the law.

“All persons born or naturalized in the United States; and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the States wherein they reside."

Two Methods to Reach US citizenship

​Birthright Citizenship: Be Born on US Soil.
Naturalization: Formal Application process
(Can't be President if naturalized)

5 Steps of the Naturalization Process

​1. File a declaration of intent (Check Eligibility)
2. File your naturalization application (Pay fees)
3. Complete a criminal background check
4. Conduct interview (Includes citizenship test in English)
5. Take oath of allegiance

What do you promise w/ the oath of allegiance?

​Give up loyalty to any other country.
Defend/Obey the US Constitution & the laws of the USA.
Be loyal to the United States.
Serve the country (Military service if necessary)

​Rights of US Citizens
Vote in Federal Elections
Run for Federal Office

​Duties of US Citizens
Vote in Federal Elections
Serve on a jury when called

Duties and Rights of US CItizens

How can citizens participate in a Democracy?

​Being an informed/active voter
join a political party or civic/community group
volunteer in an election campaign
Contact your Congressional Representative
Publicly Support/oppose an issue
Run for office

How does a citizen register to vote?

​18-Year-Old Citizen (By Next Election) + Proof of Residency

Can register online or at the DMV in South Carolina

What does it mean to have a "Green Card"?

Permanent Resident card (Can Legally live and work in the USA)
5 years w/ Green Card: Apply for Citizenship (3 w/ Spouse)
Preferences: Family members, job skills, refugees, etc.

Different Types of Elections in the USA:

​Primary Election: Political parties select their nominees for the general election. (voters choose the best candidate from each political party)
General Election: Election where candidates are elected to office.
(one candidate per party for each office).
Run-Off election: Tie-breaking vote if nobody wins by a majority.
Special Election: Only takes place If an official leaves Mid-Term.